| abstract |
(57) [Summary]nThe ceramic body can be prepared by combining techniques for making thin structures with metal oxidation processes. Specifically, a thin compact is provided that includes at least one parent metal, at least one organic or inorganic fiber, and optionally one or more inorganic filler materials. Then, a liquid or a fusible composition such as polyureasilazane is brought into contact with the thin molded article to increase the flexibility and moldability of the thin molded article. The thin features are then shaped or molded, individually or in combination, cured and formed, for example, into a self-supporting structure. The thin profile is then heated to a temperature above the melting point of the parent metal, causing the molten parent metal to react in situ, producing an oxidation reaction product that is at least partially interconnected in three dimensions and has the desired shape. Alternatively, a ceramic body having a thin structure can be formed. |